Rare wartime protests erupt in Ukraine after defence minister's dismissal
Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in Kyiv and several other Ukrainian cities after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy unexpectedly dismissed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. The protests, unusual during wartime, reflect growing public concern over the future direction of Ukraine's military leadership and defence reforms.
KYIV — Hundreds of Ukrainians have staged rare public demonstrations against President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's decision to dismiss Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, a move that has sparked one of the most significant political controversies inside Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion.
Protests began in Kyiv before spreading to other cities including Kharkiv. Demonstrators carried Ukrainian and European Union flags and held signs demanding Fedorov's return, while many also criticised the continued leadership of Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi.
Fedorov, who had become one of Ukraine's most popular government figures, was widely credited with accelerating the military's adoption of drones, digital technologies and procurement reforms. Supporters argue that these initiatives helped modernise Ukraine's armed forces during the ongoing war with Russia.
Although President Zelenskyy has defended the government reshuffle as part of a broader effort to strengthen the wartime administration, critics say the dismissal risks slowing military innovation at a critical moment. Reports indicate that tensions between Fedorov and Ukraine's military leadership had intensified in recent months over battlefield strategy and the pace of reform.
The government has appointed Yevhenii Khmara as interim defence minister while parliament prepares to consider a permanent replacement. Zelenskyy has also announced additional changes aimed at strengthening Ukraine's defence technology sector and maintaining military effectiveness.
Despite the political dispute, Ukrainian officials have stressed that the country's defence against Russia remains fully operational. However, analysts say the demonstrations highlight growing public expectations that military reforms continue despite changes at the highest levels of government.
The protests remain peaceful, with participants insisting their actions are intended to support Ukraine's long-term security rather than undermine the country's wartime unity. Organisers have indicated that further demonstrations could take place if the government does not address public concerns over the leadership changes.
